The Winterveil Pack. One month later.
“Pretend I’m not here,” Ryan’s deep voice broke the silence of the misty morning forest.
Arwen glanced at him, her face a little tense. “What do you mean?”
Ryan stood a few steps ahead, arms crossed over his chest. “You need to move, eat, and survive as if you’re truly on your own. If this forest turns against you, you must endure it. That means without anyone’s help—not even mine.”
Arwen drew a long breath, swallowing the nervousness in her chest. “All right. I’ll try.”
“Not try,” Ryan cut in, firm. “You must succeed. Remember, an enemy doesn’t give second chances.”
They began walking deeper into the woods. Ryan had deliberately given Arwen no supplies, only a small flask of water she had to guard carefully.
“Look for signs of life,” Ryan instr
